I go to Whistler regularly. It’s a ski resort and one of my favorite winter getaways. We’re gearing up for ski season which got me thinking about many other wonderful, cozy and fun winter getaways throughout America (I know Whistler is in Canada lol). As an avid skier, road trip lover and small town aficionado, I’ve been to many. Based on my travels and research, the following are what I consider to be the 25 best towns for a cozy winter getaway this coming year in America.
25. Leavenworth, Washington
This Bavarian-style village nestled in the Cascade Mountains transforms into a snow-covered wonderland each winter. Leavenworth’s holiday lights festival, cozy German restaurants, and quaint streets lined with alpine architecture make it feel like you’ve stepped into a European snow globe. Sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and hot mulled wine by the fire are musts for the ultimate cozy vibe.
24. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe might be known for its skiing, but its real charm lies in the snow-covered streets, historic inns, and welcoming fireplaces that dot the town. After a day of ice skating or sleigh rides, you can retreat to a cozy B&B, sip hot cocoa, or unwind at one of the town’s luxurious spas. The Vermont winter wonderland setting is picture-perfect.
23. Breckenridge, Colorado
While it’s famous for skiing, Breckenridge offers so much more for those seeking a cozy winter getaway. Wander through the snow-dusted Victorian streets, warm up in one of the many local breweries, or take a snowcat tour through the forest. The town’s charming blend of Old West history and festive winter spirit makes it a must-visit.
22. Lake Placid, New York
Home to two Winter Olympics, Lake Placid has a rich winter sports history, but it’s also ideal for non-skiers looking for cozy. The town offers ice skating on Mirror Lake, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and boutique shopping along Main Street. Stay in one of the lakeside lodges with roaring fireplaces and soak in the tranquility of the Adirondacks.
21. Woodstock, Vermont
Woodstock is the epitome of New England charm in the winter. The town’s covered bridges, historic farmhouses, and Main Street shops blanketed in snow set the scene for a perfect winter escape. Head to Billings Farm for a sleigh ride, then retreat to one of the area’s cozy inns, many of which offer fireplaces and gourmet farm-to-table meals.
20. McCall, Idaho
Set along Payette Lake and surrounded by the Payette National Forest, McCall offers a quiet, snow-filled retreat. Winter brings the McCall Winter Carnival, complete with ice sculptures and snowshoe golf. Cozy lakeside cabins and local hot springs make it an ideal place to curl up after a day in the snow.
19. Jackson, Wyoming
While Jackson is a gateway to world-class skiing, its winter coziness doesn’t rely on the slopes. The town’s Old West charm is alive in its cozy saloons, upscale lodges, and art galleries. Take a wildlife tour to spot bison and elk or enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge before retreating to a fireside lounge.
18. Saranac Lake, New York
Not far from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake is a charming Adirondack village perfect for a winter escape. The annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival brings ice palaces and parades, while snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails are abundant. The small-town atmosphere and cozy lakeside cabins make this a peaceful spot to unwind in the snow.
17. Ely, Minnesota
Ely sits on the edge of the Boundary Waters, offering stunning winter views and endless opportunities for snow sports. After a day of dogsledding, snowmobiling, or ice fishing, warm up in one of Ely’s rustic lodges or cabins. This remote northern Minnesota town gives you the chance to disconnect and embrace winter in a truly peaceful setting.
16. Taos, New Mexico
Taos isn’t your typical snowy retreat, but its high desert location means it gets plenty of winter snow with the added bonus of Southwest charm. The adobe architecture looks stunning dusted in white, and the town offers plenty of cozy casitas, art galleries, and restaurants with fireplaces. Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a unique winter experience for history buffs.
15. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is synonymous with luxury, but it also offers a cozy, wintery charm for non-skiers. The town’s high-end lodges, gourmet restaurants, and snow-covered streets create a perfect retreat. Try ice skating at the downtown rink, take a snowshoe tour through the surrounding forests, or simply curl up in front of the fireplace at a five-star hotel.
14. North Conway, New Hampshire
Nestled in the White Mountains, North Conway is a classic New England winter town. The snow-covered streets are lined with historic inns, and the nearby Conway Scenic Railroad offers winter train rides through the snowy landscape. It’s also home to some of the best outlet shopping in the region, making it perfect for a cozy retreat with a side of holiday shopping.
13. Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor may be a summer hotspot, but it transforms into a quiet winter getaway with snowy coastlines and tranquil scenery. Acadia National Park offers snowshoeing and cross-country skiing with stunning ocean views. Afterward, warm up in one of the town’s historic inns or seaside B&Bs, many of which offer roaring fireplaces and hearty Maine cuisine.
12. Sisters, Oregon
Surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, Sisters offers a cozy, snow-filled escape without the hustle of a major resort town. The old Western-style architecture gives the town a unique charm, and the nearby Hoodoo Ski Area offers snow sports for those who want them. After a day in the snow, cozy up in a cabin or lodge and enjoy the quiet beauty of this little mountain town.
11. Park City, Utah
Park City may be famous for skiing, but the town itself is perfect for those looking to relax in a snowy setting. Stroll through the snow-covered Main Street lined with historic buildings, art galleries, and cozy cafés. The Sundance Film Festival in January adds to the town’s appeal, but if you’re just here to relax, Park City’s luxury lodges and spas offer the perfect hideaway.
10. Ouray, Colorado
Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a stunning mountain town with steep cliffs, hot springs, and snow-covered peaks. Ice climbing in the Ouray Ice Park is popular for thrill-seekers, but you can just as easily relax in the natural hot springs or take in the mountain views from a cozy cabin. Ouray’s quiet charm and scenic beauty make it ideal for a winter escape.
9. Truckee, California
Just north of Lake Tahoe, Truckee offers a more low-key, cozy winter getaway with plenty of snow and outdoor activities. The historic downtown is perfect for strolling, with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. The surrounding mountains offer snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while nearby Donner Lake is perfect for a serene winter walk.
8. Durango, Colorado
Durango is a cozy mountain town known for its historic steam train and winter beauty. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers scenic winter train rides through the San Juan Mountains. The town is packed with old Western charm, craft breweries, and cozy lodges. After a day of sledding or snowshoeing, warm up by the fire with a local craft beer in hand.
7. Joseph, Oregon
Located in the Wallowa Mountains, Joseph is a small town with breathtaking scenery and plenty of snow. Known for its artsy vibe and bronze sculptures, Joseph is perfect for those looking to relax in a quiet, snow-filled environment. Enjoy cross-country skiing, take a scenic drive through the snow-dusted mountains, and cozy up in a mountain cabin.
6. Bethel, Maine
Bethel is a quintessential New England village with historic homes, a charming downtown, and plenty of snow. The town is home to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even fat tire biking. After exploring the snowy trails, head back to one of the town’s cozy inns or lodges and enjoy some classic Maine winter hospitality.
5. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva might be a summer destination, but winter brings a magical, snow-covered charm to this lakeside town. The annual Winterfest features ice sculptures and winter activities, and the historic downtown is full of quaint shops and cafés. Lake Geneva’s cozy inns and resorts are perfect for curling up after a day spent ice skating or exploring the frozen lakeshore.
4. Cedarburg, Wisconsin
Just outside Milwaukee, Cedarburg offers small-town charm with a historic downtown that looks straight out of a holiday postcard when covered in snow. The town is home to cozy bed-and-breakfasts, local wineries, and art galleries. Ice skating on the frozen ponds and walking the snow-covered streets make it a perfect spot for a winter retreat.
3. Ellicottville, New York
Ellicottville is a small, charming town nestled in the Allegheny Mountains that comes alive in winter. Holiday Valley Resort offers skiing, but the town’s cozy restaurants, shops, and annual Winter Carnival make it a delightful destination for non-skiers. Take a snowy walk through town, warm up with a drink at a local pub, and enjoy the festive, small-town vibe.
2. Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky may be known for its ski resort, but it’s also one of the coziest towns to visit in winter. The small downtown area is filled with rustic lodges and shops, while nearby trails offer snowshoeing and winter wildlife viewing. After a day outdoors, there’s nothing better than relaxing by the fire in one of the many luxury cabins or lodges with stunning mountain views.
1. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City, Michigan, is an ideal cozy winter getaway thanks to its stunning location along Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, where the snow blankets the landscape, transforming the town into a picturesque winter wonderland. The downtown area offers charming shops, cafés, and wineries that remain lively even in the cold months, providing perfect spots to warm up after a day outside. The region is also known for its nearby rolling vineyards and tasting rooms along the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, many of which offer fireside wine tastings.
